2017 Chrysler Pacifica

Chrysler thinks that it's time to get away from unfortunate stigma of minivans being "uncool". So get ready for the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica and the Pacifica hybrid version. It's definitely not your parent's minivan. You may remember the Pacifica from 2003 as a crossover that Chrysler sent out into the world. But this time around, the game has been stepped up quite a few levels.

It will be available in six models, while the hybrid will be available in two. That means you can get the vehicle you need AND want, as it's equipped with a redesigned 3.6-liter, V-6 Pentastar engine that produces 287 horsepower plus 262 lb-ft of torque. FCA has really stepped it up by doubling down on entertainment. Two 10-inch Uconnect screens are positioned for the back seats so passengers can watch movies, play games and connect personal devices.

After testing and surveying, they found that the typical minivan owner drove about 30 miles a day and they designed the hybrid powertrain to have an estimated electric range of 30 miles when fully charged. It typically takes about 2 hours to full charge the battery using a 240-volt plug-in system. Plus it gets up to 80 miles per gallon equivalent in city driving. What's really convenient is the position of the battery in the hybrid. Rather than taking up cargo room and third-row Stow n' Go in the back, it's placed under the second-row floor. Once the battery's energy becomes depleted, the Pacifica Hybrid turns into a part-time electric vehicle.

The only major problem with this van is that it's not being sold yet. Supposedly the Pacifica will begin being sold in the spring of 2016 and the hybrid won't come out until the second half of the year. So as we wait for its arrival, take a look at the product page at Chrysler. Make sure you check back with us as time gets closer and always feel free to look through our inventory.